Cholera Vaccine Injection

• Type: Vaccine

• Purpose: Protects against cholera, an acute diarrheal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria

• Form: Injectable vaccine (killed, whole-cell) — though oral vaccines are more common globally

How It Works

• The injectable cholera vaccine contains killed cholera bacteria.

• When injected, it stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against Vibrio cholerae.

• These antibodies help protect the person if exposed to cholera, reducing severity or preventing infection.

Common Uses

• Provides protection for:

  • People living in cholera-endemic areas

  • Travelers going to regions with active cholera outbreaks

  • Populations at risk during epidemics or natural disasters

Advantages

• Helps reduce risk of severe cholera

• Can be used for outbreak control in high-risk communities

• Especially useful where safe water and sanitation are limited

Possible Side Effects

Usually mild:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at injection site

• Low-grade fever

• Mild fatigue or headache

Rare:

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Precautions

• Not recommended for children under a certain age (varies by vaccine type)

• Immunity may not be lifelong — booster doses might be needed

• Injectable vaccine is generally less preferred compared to oral cholera vaccines, which offer better and longer-lasting protection